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Assessing the impact of going off-grid on transmission charge and energy market outcomes

A team of researchers found that prosumers, who produce their own electricity, can lower transmission charges when generating less energy. However, when producing a large amount of renewable energy, transmission charges increase. The study suggests levying a per-MWh tax on prosumer consumption to reduce the likelihood of death spirals.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalApplied Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 1, 2023

Prolonged power outages, often caused by weather events, hit some parts of the U.S. harder than others

A study analyzing three years of power outages across the US found that Americans bearing the brunt of climate change and health inequities are most at risk in four regions. Heavy precipitation, tropical cyclones, and storms with high winds make power outages more likely, especially in the South, Northeast, and Appalachia. The research...

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 1, 2023
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Underground water could be the solution to green heating and cooling

A new study suggests that using underground water for thermal energy storage (ATES) can reduce heating and cooling energy demand in the US by 40%, making urban energy infrastructure more resilient. ATES stores energy as temperature underground, leveraging natural geological features to heat or cool buildings during extreme weather events.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalApplied Energy·DateApr 5, 2023

Drought, heat waves worsen West Coast air pollution inequality

A new study found that droughts and heatwaves exacerbate air pollution inequalities in California, particularly for communities of color. Financial penalties for power plants can significantly reduce people's exposure to pollution, except during severe heat waves.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 23, 2023

At least 80% of the world’s most important sites for biodiversity on land currently contain human developments, study finds

A study by researchers from BirdLife International, WWF, and the University of Cambridge found that 80% of key biodiversity areas (KBAs) on land contain infrastructure, which is a significant driver of threats to biodiversity. The prevalence of infrastructure in KBAs is likely to increase due to planned developments.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalBiological Conservation·DateMar 22, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Minimizing electric vehicles’ impact on the grid

Researchers found that strategically placing charging stations, especially at workplaces and in delayed home settings, can reduce peak electricity demand, store solar energy, and conveniently meet drivers' needs. This approach could help minimize the strain on the grid and avoid costly new power plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMar 15, 2023

Study of US hydroelectric dams shows benefits to local economies decline with improvements in transmission capabilities

A study by Carnegie Mellon University researcher Edson Severnini found that large-scale hydroelectric dams constructed in the US before 1950 spurred short- and long-term growth, while those built after 1950 had modest effects on local economies. The decline is attributed to advancements in high-tension transmission lines.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe Economic Journal·DateFeb 16, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Communities that suffered rapid manufacturing job losses fare worse on sustainability

A study found that communities experiencing sudden and significant job losses in manufacturing are less likely to engage in sustainability planning and meet sustainability-related goals. This is attributed to deep-rooted connections between industry and community identity, making it difficult for these communities to transition.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Innovation and Societal Transitions·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2023

Turning abandoned mines into batteries

Researchers developed a novel way to store energy by transporting sand into abandoned underground mines, creating a long-term energy storage solution. The technology generates electricity when the price is high and stores it when cheap, making it an effective and cost-efficient alternative to traditional batteries.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnergies·DateJan 12, 2023

Columbia University and partners win $35M JUMP 2.0 grant to create Center for Ubiquitous Connectivity

The Center for Ubiquitous Connectivity (CUbiC) aims to flatten the computation-communication gap by delivering seamless Edge-to-Cloud connectivity with transformational reductions in energy consumption. Led by Columbia Engineering Professor Keren Bergman, CUbiC will create new ultra-energy efficient technologies and system architectures.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJan 5, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Risk of population disruption as a result of decarbonization

The study suggests that increased demand for energy transition metals could be more disruptive to some communities than winding back production of thermal coal. An additional 115.7 million people would be at risk from disruption by ETMs.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Communications·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 15, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Rice lab’s catalyst could be key for hydrogen economy

The new catalyst uses energy from light to convert ammonia into clean-burning hydrogen fuel, breaking the need for heat and potentially reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The discovery paves the way for sustainable, low-cost hydrogen production locally rather than in massive centralized plants.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2022

Limiting global warming now can preserve valuable freshwater resource

Researchers warn of impending 35-60 year droughts in western US unless greenhouse gas emissions are curbed to limit warming to 2.5 degrees Celsius. Mountain snowpack is shrinking due to global warming, threatening agriculture, ecosystem support, and urban water supplies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2022

Researchers use blockchain to increase electric grid resiliency

A team of researchers has developed a framework using blockchain technology to track device communications on the electric grid, detecting anomalies such as data manipulation and spoofing. This approach increases grid resiliency and allows for rapid response to cyberattacks or equipment failures.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateNov 22, 2022

Building green energy facilities may produce substantial carbon emissions, says study

A new study estimates the cost of a green transition in greenhouse gases, finding that building renewable infrastructure generates significant carbon emissions. However, speeding up the transition could dramatically decrease these emissions and limit warming to 2 degrees or even 1.5 degrees.

SourceColumbia Climate School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateNov 21, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Sea level rise to dramatically speed up erosion of rock coastlines by 2100

A new study models likely future cliff retreat rates of two rock coasts in the UK, finding that rock coasts are likely to retreat at a rate not seen for 3,000-5,000 years. The researchers predict that rock coast cliffs will retreat by at least 10-22 meters inland due to accelerating sea level rise.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 18, 2022

Global distributive justice and systemic transformations key to planetary stability, study finds

A new study finds that achieving access to minimum resources and services for all while safeguarding the Earth system requires redistribution and societal transformations. The research shows that the wealthiest individuals and societies must undergo transformative change to mitigate climate impacts, while the poor are not the primary c...

SourceFuture Earth·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2022

Using AI to operate critical infrastructure autonomously

A new research group aims to develop an interdisciplinary approach for secure operation of critical infrastructure systems using artificial intelligence. The goal is to create a 'hybrid architecture' that combines AI-based strategic development with rule-based systems, ensuring safe and reliable behavior.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateNov 4, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Double trouble when 2 disasters strike electrical transmission infrastructure

Researchers developed a machine learning model to analyze how susceptible overhead transmission lines are to damage from back-to-back natural hazards. The study found that previous damage can have a significant impact on the fragility and reliability of power grids, especially when followed by a hurricane.

SourceOhio State University·JournalEarthquake Engineering & Structural Dynamics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 21, 2022

Blessing or curse? How the pandemic and the war impact energy transitions

The Covid-19 pandemic and European conflict have exposed the vulnerability of the global energy system, with reduced investments in clean energy projects and increased fossil fuel reliance. This is likely to create lock-in effects that could take decades to reverse, making a sustainable energy transition increasingly challenging.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnergies·DateOct 17, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New study finds that natural gas leaked from interstate pipelines contains hazardous air pollutants and carcinogens

A new study published in Environmental Research Letters found that natural gas transported by interstate pipelines contains hazardous air pollutants and known human carcinogens. The study analyzed industry-reported data and found surprising levels of harmful air pollutants, including benzene, mercury, radon, and hydrogen sulfide.

SourcePSE Healthy Energy·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 20, 2022

Researchers demonstrate new, more energy-efficient devices using gallium nitride

Researchers have developed a new technique to dope gallium nitride (GaN), creating high-power electronic devices with reduced energy loss and increased efficiency. This breakthrough enables the use of GaN in compact power electronics for sustainable infrastructure, such as smart grids.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2022

Burying short sections of power lines would drastically reduce hurricanes’ future impact on coastal residents

Researchers at Princeton University found that burying 5% of power lines near main distribution points could reduce the number of affected residents by half. The study used Harris County, Texas, as an example and estimated that the risk of hurricane-blackout-heat wave events would increase 23 times by the end of the century under a

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 17, 2022

Urban sites such as Berkeley and Brooklyn have their individual magnetic pulse

A multidisciplinary study uses magnetometers to investigate the magnetic fields of metropolitan areas, finding that each city has a distinct magnetic signature. This unique characteristic can be exploited to analyze anomalies in city operation and long-term trends of urban development.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 26, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

In a hotter world, air conditioning isn’t a luxury, it’s a lifesaver

As extreme heatwaves ravage the globe, scientists warn that only 8% of the world's poorest people have access to air conditioning. By 2050, 70% of the population may require AC, with 92% needed in India and Indonesia. This demands massive infrastructure upgrades to prevent lives from being lost.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateJul 21, 2022

Why natural gas is not a bridge technology

The study highlights the risks of natural gas infrastructure expansion, including underestimated methane emissions and economic climate risks. The researchers propose five measures to avoid these risks, including a timely and consistent natural gas exit.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 5, 2022

Built infrastructure, hunting and climate change linked to huge migratory bird declines

A new study reveals that population declines have been greatest among species that migrate to areas with more human infrastructure, habitat degradation, and climate change. The research identified 16 human-induced threats to migratory birds, including infrastructure associated with bird disturbance and collisions.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalGlobal Ecology and Biogeography·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 24, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Research extends the lifetime of molecules in organic flow batteries to practical values

Harvard researchers develop new method to extend the lifetime of organic molecules in organic aqueous flow batteries, improving their commercial viability. The approach works by periodically providing a shock to revive decomposed molecules, resulting in a net lifetime increase of up to 260 times.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 16, 2022

New model finds best sites for electric vehicle charging stations

Researchers developed a computational model to determine optimal places for electric vehicle charging facilities and powerful stations without straining the local power grid. The model considers travel flow, user demand, and regional power infrastructure needs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalComputer-Aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2022

A 50% reduction in emissions by 2030 can be achieved. Here’s how

A new study suggests achieving a 50% reduction in US greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 is possible through increasing renewable capacity and transitioning to electric vehicles. This would limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, aligning with the UN's climate target.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2022

A model of improved safety for LNG storage

Researchers have developed a rigorous computer simulation technique to optimize LNG tank design, reducing construction costs while improving safety against catastrophic failures. The new model can be used to mitigate environmental and economic consequences of failure, enabling Australia to store more energy at the right time.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalBulletin of Earthquake Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 2, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

400 GW wind, solar power per year to meet 1.5 C Paris Agreement

To achieve the EU's climate neutrality goal by 2050 with a maximum temperature increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius, a massive rollout of solar and wind power is required, along with investments in Power-to-X technologies and carbon capture. The model suggests installing 400 GW of new solar and wind energy capacity every year from 2025-2035.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJoule·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 18, 2022

Energy, maritime leaders to convene for DOE InnovationXLab Summit

The summit focuses on emerging innovations and scientific capabilities from DOE national laboratories, including self-reinforced cement, temperature-based hibernating batteries, and acoustic tags. These place-based research solutions aim to address challenges in energy resiliency and the maritime industry.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMay 18, 2022

How solving Central Asia's water-energy conflict can also boost renewable energy generation

Researchers propose a dual water and energy storage scheme to resolve the temporal mismatch between resources, reducing CO2 emissions while guaranteeing water supply. The scheme utilizes seasonal pumped hydroelectric systems to store water for irrigation during summer and hydropower generation in winter.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalJournal of Energy Storage·DateMay 3, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Import tariffs: an alternative to a European energy embargo against Russia

A team of economists proposes flexible import tariffs to reduce Russia's financial gains from its oil and gas exports, allowing EU to flexibly react to Moscow's actions in Ukraine. The measure could prove valuable in mid- and long-term efforts to become more independent of Russian oil and gas.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience·TypeCase study·DateApr 28, 2022

Lack of marshaling ports hindering offshore wind industry

A University of Delaware study reveals a lack of marshaling ports is hindering the US offshore wind industry's growth, threatening to meet renewable energy targets. The study finds that existing and planned ports will be insufficient by 2023 to meet state and federal commitments, with a significant shortfall expected through 2050.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnergy Policy·DateApr 12, 2022

Collision hotspots for migrating birds revealed in new study

Researchers used GPS data from 65 bird tracking studies to identify areas where migrating birds are more sensitive to onshore wind turbine or power line development. These 'collision hotspots' are concentrated along important migration routes, coastlines, and near breeding locations in Europe and North Africa.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 11, 2022
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

"Advanced" countries’ wealth depends on the appropriation of resources and labour from the global South

A study by Jason Hickel reveals that the global North appropriates vast resources and labor from the global South through price differentials in international trade, resulting in a net drain of $10.8 trillion in 2015. This unsustainable practice perpetuates global inequality and ecological breakdown.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 22, 2022

Texas cold snap highlights need for improved power systems

The Texas cold snap highlighted the critical role of electricity in society and the need for improved power system planning to withstand extreme weather events. The event showed that traditional planning based on historical weather patterns is not sufficient, and new information from climate projection models is needed.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateMar 14, 2022

Private investment in California’s solar energy industry increases climate vulnerabilities, study finds

A study by University of Illinois researchers found that private investments in California's solar energy industry increase climate vulnerabilities. Large-scale infrastructure needed to attract private investment makes the system more vulnerable to climate extremes, including heat waves and droughts.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalEnvironment and Planning E Nature and Space·TypeContent analysis·DateMar 9, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Taking a systems approach to cyber security

A new study offers a framework for addressing cyber security challenges in critical infrastructure by explicitly representing multiple dimensions of potential impacts. The proposed Bayesian network model allows for the identification of optimal portfolios of security measures to minimize expected cyberattack impacts.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalRisk Analysis·DateMar 2, 2022

Disaggregate and rule: Optimizing power consumption estimation in commercial buildings

Researchers propose a disaggregation strategy to estimate power consumption of individual electrical facilities, improving accuracy over traditional methods. The new approach uses linear regression residuals and clustered daily routines to provide more accurate estimations for workdays and holidays.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalEnergy and Buildings·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 2022

Reducing carbon emissions of C&D waste in building refurbishment

Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provide valuable insights on managing C&D waste and reducing carbon emissions in building refurbishment projects. By upcycling generated waste, carbon emissions can be significantly reduced, with a potential reduction of around 40% compared to traditional practices.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.